9
Sep
Safe Storage and Handling of Laboratory Reagents in Australian Labs
Laboratory reagents are essential for education, research, and diagnostics — but they also present significant safety risks if improperly handled or stored. From corrosives and solvents to biological reagents, each chemical must be managed in line with AS/NZS 2243 standards and Safe Work Australia guidelines. At LabChoice Australia, we not only supply high-quality reagents but also support laboratories with guidance on safe storage, handling, and compliance.
Principles of Safe Storage
- Segregation: Store incompatible chemicals separately (e.g., acids away from bases, oxidisers away from flammables).
- Ventilation: Use AS1940-compliant storage cabinets for volatile reagents and flammables.
- Labelling: Ensure every container is labelled with chemical name, hazard class, and date received/opened.
- Temperature Control: Some reagents require refrigeration or controlled environments to maintain stability.
Best Practices in Handling Reagents
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear gloves, lab coats, and goggles when handling reagents.
- Spill Preparedness: Keep neutralisers, absorbents, and spill kits close to reagent storage areas.
- Measuring and Dispensing: Use clean, dry glassware or equipment specific to the reagent type.
- Training: Ensure staff and students are trained in Safe Work Australia chemical handling protocols.
Comparison: Poor vs Safe Reagent Management
| Factor | Poor Practice | Safe LabChoice Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | Mixed chemicals on open shelves | Segregated, AS1940-compliant cabinets |
| Labelling | Missing or unclear labels | Clear hazard and date labelling |
| Handling | No PPE, open handling | PPE + controlled dispensing protocols |
| Emergency Response | No spill kits available | Reagent-specific spill kits ready on-site |
| Compliance | Non-aligned with AS/NZS standards | Full AS/NZS 2243 + Safe Work compliance |
This comparison highlights how LabChoice solutions help Australian labs move from risky practices to full compliance and safe operations.
FAQs
Q1: Do all laboratory reagents require specialised storage?
Not all, but flammable, corrosive, and volatile reagents must be stored in AS1940-compliant chemical cabinets.
Q2: How should schools manage reagent safety?
Schools should keep minimal reagent stock, ensure clear labelling, and train staff in chemical spill response.
Q3: How often should reagents be inspected?
Reagents should be inspected monthly for leaks, expiry dates, and damaged packaging.
Q4: Can LabChoice supply storage solutions as well as reagents?
Yes. We supply chemical storage cabinets, spill kits, and PPE alongside high-quality laboratory reagents.
Refined References
- Safe Work Australia – Managing Chemical Risks. Safe Work Australia
- AS/NZS 2243: Safety in Laboratories Standards. SAI Global
- AS1940: Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids. Standards Australia
- CSIRO – Chemical Safety and Laboratory Risk Management. CSIRO
